Methods and apparatus for beverage dispensing

A method of mixing a diluent and a base fluid, comprising:

• receiving the diluent;
• directing the diluent into an outlet diluent flow path;
• receiving the base fluid;
• directing the base fluid to a base fluid outlet;
• closing the base fluid outlet when base fluid is not demanded;
• opening the base fluid outlet when base fluid is demanded;
• and
• when base fluid is demanded, directing the base fluid to merge into the outlet diluent flow path at a point of intersection having an angle that is greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than 90 degrees through a plurality of flow directors.

A nozzle, comprising:

• a diluent inlet coupled to a diluent supply;
• a diluent outlet in fluid communication with the diluent inlet, the diluent flowing out of the diluent outlet in a diluent flow path when diluent is demanded;
• a diffuser including a base fluid inlet coupled to a base fluid supply and a base fluid outlet in fluid communication with the base fluid inlet;
• a check valve proximate the base fluid outlet and operable to open when base fluid is demanded and to close the base fluid outlet if base fluid is not demanded;
• and
• the diffuser defining a plurality of flow directors through which base fluid flows when the check valve is open, the flow directors directing the base fluid to merge into the diluent flow path at an angle that is less than 90 degrees.